Choosing a new desk for a home office can be a mind-boggling experience. Before you write a check or whip out a credit card consider these things.
1. Your needs. The key question to ask yourself, "Why do I need a new desk?" You may need a computer work station, a personal desk, a small secretary, or more storage space.
Hutches For Desks
2. Size of desk. The desk you choose may depend on size. To see if a desk will fit lay newspaper on the floor. The Home Office Design Guide Web site says you should "always over estimate your space requirements." Check the dimensions and make sure the desk will go through your office door.
3. Style preference. You have many styles to choose from: computer desk, L-shaped desk, U-shaped desk, executive desk, desk bases with matching hutches. Choose a desk that goes with the rest of your office furniture.
4. Special features. Tips for choosing a desk are posted on the Home Office Design Guide Web site and they include a clear desktop area, deep drawer for documents, another drawer for pencils, pens, stapler, paper clips, and enough leg space. The only way to determine if a desk meets your needs is to go to a store, examine the construction, and sit at the desk.
5. Materials. Desks are made of solid wood, Formica laminate, engineered wood, pressed wood, plywood, glass and steel, fiberboard, and medium density fiberboard (MDF). MDF is made of refined wood fibers glued together with resin. Unlike fiberboard, which can shift when humidity is high, MDF resists moisture. According to the Merbok Web site, "MDF is resistant to warp, moisture and compression."
6. Construction. You may have this desk for a long time, so examine the construction carefully. Are the joints strong? Do the drawers slide easily? Is there enough storage?
7. Product reviews. Many Web sites have stylish desks at bargain prices. Despite the zoom feature, you can't really examine a desk. However, you can read product reviews. One customer, for example, bought a carved base and matching carved hutch. Though the carving was excellent, the hutch part was so wobbly she had to screw it to the base. Reviews can keep you from making a mistake.
8. Price. How much are you willing to pay for a home office desk? An inexpensive desk may meet your needs if you are living in a temporary home. On the other hand, if you are settled you may want to invest in a quality desk that will last for years.
9. Shipping/delivery charges. Find out the delivery charge and when your desk is slated to arrive. Some Web sites have free shipping on certain days and/or coupons. Home stores may have free delivery in your area.
10. Your feelings. Choose a desk that makes you feel good because you are going to be sitting at for hours. Work goes faster when you are feeling good. With the right desk, your work may feel like play.
Copyright 2007 by Harriet Hodgson